2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　The ESV is an all-new model in the Cadillac lineup. Essentially nothing more than a slightly stretched version of the standard Escalade, the ESV incorporates all of the improvements made to the standard Escalade for 2003.

　　

zzdcar says

　　With its brash styling, class-leading V8 power, well-sorted vehicle dynamics and lavish interior, the ESV is an SUV worthy of the Cadillac name.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$297/mo  for Escalade ESV Base

　　Escalade ESV Base

　　AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A) (Most Popular) - $56,380 MSRP

　　vs

　　$229/mo

　　Avg. Large SUV

　　

Vehicle overview

　　It may have a fancy new name, but don't be fooled. The Cadillac Escalade ESV is nothing more than a slightly stretched version of the standard Escalade -- think Chevy Tahoe vs. Chevy Suburban.

　　We expect that almost every feature available on the standard model will carry over to the ESV. That means brutish power in the form of a 6.0-liter, 345-horsepower V8, full-time all wheel drive, and a road sensing suspension that delivers a surprisingly taut and controlled ride.

　　Although almost all the interior features will remain the same, the ESV is expected to get a revised interior that will debut across the lineup for '03. The plush leather seats, Zebrano wood trim, and terrific Bose stereo system from the current model will likely stay, while the third row seat that's optional in the short wheelbase Escalade will probably come standard in the stretched ESV.

　　

2003 Escalade ESV Highlights

　　

Base MSRP	$56,380
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	13 MPG
Cost to Drive	$297/month
Seating	8 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	45.7 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles